Bishop Elie Bechara Haddad led the Family Committee's first formation of the year at Beit El Ansara, explaining the meaning of the Synod on synodality and the role of lay people in the Church's mission.
On Sunday evening 9 February, the Family Committee gathered at Beit El Ansara in Kfarfalous around His Excellency Bishop Elie Bechara Haddad, Archbishop of the diocese, for the first of its formation meetings this year.
The formation focused on the meaning of the General Synod and the challenges that led Pope Francis to convene it.
The Archbishop explained that the first aim of the Synod is "evangelization." Pope Francis stressed the role and importance of lay people in the Church's life and mission; this cooperation creates new leaders to revive the proclamation of the Gospel in the Church. It is participation and communion among all ages and all people, and a mission of openness to other religions and individuals so as to play a strong role in human society. This renewal of structures and leadership covers four areas: ecumenical, theological, legal and social.
The biblical dimension of the Synod is the community: "Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." The Holy Spirit speaks to the community.
His Excellency developed the theme further, explaining the papal directions and reforms on the Synod's agenda: moving away from rigid hierarchy; drawing closer to and listening to lay people; changing bishops' titles to better reflect their service and mission; encouraging rotation between priests and lay people in running Church institutions; including people with disabilities so their abilities serve the work of the diocese; and forming lay people and clergy to work together.
Pope Francis also called for openness and closeness to all people, believers and non-believers, because they are our brothers and sisters in humanity, and for dialogue between cultures and religions.
Synodality is also a social change, marked by humility and acceptance of the other.
The search for truth needs dialogue with everyone.
After the formation, the evening continued with a simple dinner around the fire, during which the committee members and the Archbishop shared conversation and experiences.
